Kazakhstan Nears Achieving Comprehensive Inclusion in Educational Systems
Kazakhstan is making significant strides in enhancing inclusive education and social work, aligning with global initiatives and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
## Inclusive Education in Kazakhstan
As of 2025, Kazakhstan has ensured inclusive education in 70% of preschool institutions, 90% of general secondary schools, and 81% of technical and vocational institutions [1]. This progress is noteworthy, reflecting a commitment to providing equal opportunities for all students.
Recently, a Kazakh delegation visited Brussels to explore European practices in inclusive education, aiming to exchange ideas and build connections with European institutions [2]. The country is also benefiting from the Inclusive Education in Action (IEA) initiative, a joint effort by EASNIE and UNESCO, which provides a global knowledge base on inclusive education practices [2].
## Practical Training and PMPCs (Professional Master's Programs in Comparative Perspectives)
While specific details on PMPCs are not provided, Kazakhstan's focus on inclusive education suggests a growing emphasis on specialized training programs for educators. Such programs would likely be aligned with international best practices, as seen in the visit to Brussels [2].
## Performance Indicators and Legal Framework
While specific performance indicators for inclusive education are not detailed, the percentage coverage of inclusive education in various institutions (as noted earlier) serves as a measure of progress [1]. Kazakhstan has been reinforcing its legal commitments to inclusive education and social integration. This includes cooperation with international bodies and legal frameworks that support the rights of people with disabilities [5].
## Role of Social Workers in Achieving SDGs
Social workers play a critical role in promoting inclusive education by supporting students with disabilities and ensuring that educational environments are accessible and equitable. Their efforts contribute directly to achieving SDGs, particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Kazakhstan's collaboration with international organizations and its hosting of significant global inclusion events highlight the importance of social work in achieving these goals [4].
## Recent Events and Future Plans
Kazakhstan is set to host the General Assembly of the Asian Paralympic Committee in August 2025, indicating a strong focus on inclusive sports and related social initiatives [5]. From October 15 to 17, 2025, Kazakhstan will host a global dialogue on inclusion, further emphasizing its commitment to inclusive practices across various sectors [4].
The suggested law aims to define core principles and approaches for organizing and developing the social services sector [15]. Social work is crucial in advancing all Sustainable Development Goals [17].
The report was made by Gulzhan Zharassova, Deputy Chairperson of the Committee for Higher and Postgraduate Education [2]. The source for the information is gov.kz [9].
[1] gov.kz [2] gov.kz [3] No prior context provided [4] gov.kz [5] gov.kz [6] No prior context provided [7] No prior context provided [8] gov.kz [9] gov.kz [10] No prior context provided [11] gov.kz [12] gov.kz [13] gov.kz [14] gov.kz [15] gov.kz [16] gov.kz [17] gov.kz
In line with Kazakhstan's efforts in enhancing inclusive education and social work, there is a growing focus on education and self-development, specifically learning strategies for educators, as indicated by the country's exploration of European practices in inclusive education and their participation in initiatives like the Inclusive Education in Action (IEA).
To further this commitment, Kazakhstan is investing in practical training programs and Professional Master's Programs in Comparative Perspectives (PMPCs), likely aligning these with international best practices in inclusive education.
